World war I
World war II
SALUTE THE
TROOPS
The Evolution of the Military
The United States Military has made some pretty impressive advancements since the Revolutionary War . No longer are our soldiers forced into dangerous formations with nothing more than muskets and leather hats to protect themselves . These days , troops are being outfitted with the best technology the country can provide , including wearable air conditioning and built-in communications . These advancements , however , were afforded at the price of many lives lost during past wars and conflicts . We owe a great deal of thanks to those who have sacrificed themselves for their fellow man , and we honor them in this exceptional timeline that displays the evolution of our military .
1775 – The American Revolutionary War Troops of the Continental Army fought mainly in civilian clothing , and the outfits that were considered uniforms offered no protection whatsoever to soldiers . Men fought with knives and muskets , and plans were executed with no real military knowledge or experience to speak of , other than soldiers of previous militaries outside of the thirteen colonies .
1812 – The War of 1812 Muskets were still being used , but new models had improved accuracy . Cannons and swords played a role in weaponry as well . Regulated uniforms were now in place , and pleasing to the eye , adorned with bright reds and blues , but the hats offered no real protection and became a problem for overheating . Tactics improved but were dependent upon ambush .
1846 – Mexican-American War Bright blue uniforms made soldiers sitting ducks for skilled shooters , and wool material played no real importance on protection . Hats improved , but were still impractical . Weaponry remained on a steady advance , and were far more superior than Mexico ’ s weapons . New models included colt revolvers , improved muskets and bayonets , swords , pistols , and rifles . Some officers carried shotguns for close encounters .
1861 – American Civil War Uniforms were often mismatched due to the mass production of them in the country . Navy blue or light bluish gray were the colors of choice . Forage hats were deemed worse than any previous styles , offering no protection or practicality at all . It is possible that they were designed for fashion and not usefulness . Muskets , revolvers , pistols , and rifles were all now standard issue . New advancements in rapid fire weapons and early hand grenades were also used during this time .
72 | Spring 2018 | Adventure Outdoors